Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe is a tangy, smoky condiment made without sugar, using tomato base, vinegar, spices, and optional liquid smoke, perfect for low sugar diets.
This version delivers a rich, bold flavor that enhances grilled foods, roasted vegetables, and sandwiches while keeping it low in carbs and calories.
I made this sauce to enjoy a healthier, sugar free alternative to traditional BBQ sauces. Watching how others used natural ingredients inspired me to try it myself.
I will now show the ingredients, cooking steps, and techniques step by step to make this delicious Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe.
Is Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe Safe For Diabetics Patients?
Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe is suitable for diabetic patients because it contains no added sugar, helping to prevent spikes in blood glucose levels.
Ingredients such as tomato sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and spices provide flavor without increasing carbohydrates. Sugar free sweeteners like monk fruit, erythritol, or stevia can be added safely to enhance taste.
Portion control remains important, and the sauce should be consumed as part of a balanced diet. Regular monitoring of blood sugar ensures it fits individual dietary needs.
How To Prepare Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: About 2 cups
Main Kitchen Utensils
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Container or jar for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened tomato sauce
- 1 cup tomato paste or passata
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ cup water (adjust for desired thickness)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (unsweetened)
- Sugar free sweetener, to taste (e.g., monk fruit, erythritol, stevia)
How To Make Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Step 1 – Warm The Oil
Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a medium saucepan and heat it over medium heat for about 30 seconds, just until it’s warm.
Step 2 – Mix The Base
Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste (or pasta), apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir everything together so it’s well combined.
Step 3 – Add The Seasonings
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder, cayenne (if you like it spicy), Dijon mustard, and liquid smoke (if using). Give it a good stir so all the flavours come together.
Step 4 – Simmer The Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring now and then. Keep an eye on the thickness and add a little more water if it’s too thick. Taste and, if you want, add a sugar-free sweetener to balance the flavours.
Step 5 – Cool And Serve
Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool for a bit. It’s perfect for grilled meats, roasted veggies, or just as a dipping sauce.
Recipe Note: This unsweetened BBQ sauce is quick, healthy, and versatile. Simmer tomato sauce, paste, vinegar, spices, and optional liquid smoke. Adjust thickness with water and sweetness with sugar free sweetener. Perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 25 kcal |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
About This Sauce
The main speciality of this Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe is that it delivers all the rich, smoky, and tangy flavour of traditional barbecue sauce without any added sugar.
Using natural ingredients like tomato sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and optional liquid smoke, it creates a deep, savoury taste perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating.
The Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe is fully customisation in terms of heat and thickness and is ideal for anyone following a low carb, keto, or sugar free diet.
Its simplicity, health conscious approach, and bold flavor make it a versatile and guilt free alternative to store bought sauces.
Amazing Serving Ideas
1. Drizzle over grilled chicken or turkey for a smoky, tangy flavor boost.
2. Toss with roasted vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers for a savoury glaze.
3. Use as a dipping sauce for baked sweet potato fries or zucchini sticks.
4. Brush onto grilled tofu or temper to add bold BBQ taste without added sugar.
5. Mix into pulled pork or shredded chicken for a low-sugar BBQ sandwich filling.
Expert Tips
● Balance acidity and smokiness carefully to create depth of flavor without adding sugar.
● Adjust water gradually to achieve the desired thickness while keeping the sauce rich.
● Toast spices lightly in the pan before adding liquids to enhance their aroma and intensity.
● Allow the sauce to simmer slowly to develop a smooth, well blended texture and taste.
● Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness and intensify flavours over time.
Healthy Nutrition Benefits
The Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe offers several healthy nutrition benefits. It is low in calories and sugar, supporting weight management.
High in antioxidants from tomatoes, it helps reduce inflammation and promotes heart health. Apple cider vinegar aids digestion and supports healthy blood sugar levels.
Garlic and onion powders provide immune boosting compounds. Spices like smoked paprika and chili contain anti inflammatory and metabolism enhancing properties.
The sauce is fat conscious and nutrient-dense, making it a wholesome condiment. Its natural ingredients ensure clean, preservative free nutrition in every serving.
Why You Will Choose Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe?
You Will Choose Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe because it delivers bold, smoky flavours without added sugar.
This Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe keeps meals healthier while maintaining a rich taste that enhances grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and sandwiches.
Natural ingredients like tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, and spices create a balanced tangy and savoury profile.
This recipe allows control over sweetness and spice levels, supporting low carb and keto friendly diets. It is quick to prepare, easy to store, and brings delicious flavor to everyday meals.
Proper Storage
Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor. Keep it in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage, where it can last up to one week.
Freezing is an option for longer storage, using a freezer safe container or ice cube tray for portioning. Thaw frozen sauce in the refrigerator before use.
Stir or whisk before serving to restore consistency, as natural separation may occur during storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Sauce Spicier?
Yes, increase chili powder or cayenne pepper according to taste.
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead Of Tomato Sauce Or Paste?
Yes, but cook them down to achieve a thick consistency before adding other ingredients.
Is Liquid Smoke Necessary?
No, it is optional. It adds a smoky flavor but the sauce still tastes great without it.
What Sweeteners Work Best?
Monk fruit, erythritol, or stevia can be used to adjust sweetness without sugar.
Conclusion
I had an amazing time making this Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe, and it turned out deliciously successful! It was so easy to prepare, and the flavours are rich and satisfying without any added sugar.
I hope this recipe inspires you to try it yourself cooking it is simple and rewarding. I can’t wait for you to make it soon and share how tasty it turned out. Enjoy every flavourful bite!
More BBQ Sauce Recipes You’ll Love
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Easy Candied Jalapeno BBQ Sauce Recipe
Root Beer BBQ Sauce Recipe | Sweet & Tangy
Easy Jamaican BBQ Sauce Recipe
Easy Jim Beam Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe
Unsweetened BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Container or jar for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened tomato sauce
- 1 cup tomato paste or passata
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ cup water adjust for desired thickness
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce unsweetened
- Sugar free sweetener to taste (e.g., monk fruit, erythritol, stevia)
Instructions
Step 1 – Warm The Oil
- Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a medium saucepan and heat it over medium heat for about 30 seconds, just until it’s warm.
Step 2 – Mix The Base
- Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste (or pasta), apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir everything together so it’s well combined.
Step 3 – Add The Seasonings
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder, cayenne (if you like it spicy), Dijon mustard, and liquid smoke (if using). Give it a good stir so all the flavours come together.
Step 4 – Simmer The Sauce
- Turn the heat down to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring now and then. Keep an eye on the thickness and add a little more water if it’s too thick. Taste and, if you want, add a sugar-free sweetener to balance the flavours.
Step 5 – Cool And Serve
- Take the pan off the heat and let the sauce cool for a bit. It’s perfect for grilled meats, roasted veggies, or just as a dipping sauce.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 25 kcal | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 1 g | Carbohydrates: 5 g | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 0 gHi, I’m Samia! I’ve spent the past five years creating recipes that are both delicious and unique. Cooking is my passion, and I love exploring different cuisines, blending flavors, and turning everyday meals into something memorable. From quick weeknight dinners to festive feasts, I aim to make every dish special. I’d love for you to join me on this culinary journey together we’ll explore simple, easy-to-follow recipes and tips that make cooking fun, inspiring, and full of joy!